By Mike Power

This famous Swords building opened its controversial doors on the 18th February 1809, a couple called Joseph and Anne Carmichael being the first principals. The name chosen ‘Old Borough’ recalls the ancient autonomous status of Swords as a ‘free, self-governing’ town (Borough).) Francis Johnson (1760-1829) was the architect.

The money to build this school came from the financial bonanza accruing to Swords at the Act of Union (1801) in compensation for the loss of its two MP’s (£1,500). The school was specifically set up both to educate the poor of the village, and to prepare them to become productive members of the ascendancy-controlled Swords of that day. As well as the 3 Rs, students were also (frugally) fed, learned practical skills - needlework (girls) and apprenticeships (boys). The school also provided coal and free medical care to regular attendees, a great incentive to attend for the’ poorer classes. There was also intense competition within the school for both academic and good conduct prizes, usually being money.

The ethos of this school was overwhelmingly Protestant, Irish never having being taught and the strict Protestant bible used for religious instruction. As time went on, however, more and more Catholic families began withdrawing their children (1830s -1853) from the school in protest at the school’s Protestant character. This situation was only finally resolved in 1855 when a new Catholic school (Seatown Rd.) was opened. It took until 1887 for the allotted funds to be equitably shared between both religious communities in Swords. An emblematic tale of Sword’s past...?

Email Mike l:mp9211198@gmail.com.

By Declan Glynn

The new Fiat Grande Panda marks the triumphant return of one of Europe’s most beloved nameplates, and it is reimagined for the electric age. Blending nostalgic design cues with modern EV technology, Fiat’s latest all-rounder aims to redefine urban mobility with its distinctive personality, practicality, charm and surprising affordability.

The Grande Panda’s boxy, upright silhouette is reminiscent of the original Fiat Panda from the 1980s, and it provides the car with a confident, road-ready presence. Its squared-off, rugged design is enhanced by distinctive LED Pixel headlights, 3D vertical taillights, a 3D “Panda” signature on the doors, the FIAT name embossed onto the tailgate, sturdy roof rails, and a sporty rear spoiler – some of which are trim-dependent. The Grande Panda’s relatively compact footprint makes it super-easy to navigate along crowded city streets, while manoeuvring in and out of parking spaces can be done with the greatest of ease. Compared to the original Fiat Panda, the new iteration is 611mm longer, 557mm wider, and 131mm taller – providing justification for the name ‘Grande Panda’.

Recycled materials used throughout the cabin include striking bamboo-trimmed dashboard panels that add warmth and character. The dashboard features a rectangular element with rounded sides, and the oval theme is repeated throughout the cabin.

The digital cockpit pairs a 10” driver information display with a 10.25” infotainment touchscreen, delivering a modern, connected feel, while physical controls have been retained for key functions. Despite measuring just under 4 metres in length, front and rear passengers benefit from surprisingly generous legroom, while the high roofline means headroom is rarely an issue, even for taller occupants. The Grande Panda Electric has a boot capacity of 361-litres, expanding to 1,315-litres with the rear seats folded down.
The Grande Panda Electric is available in three trim levels: Pop, Icon and La Prima. It is built on the Stellantis Group’s Smart Car platform and it benefits from extensive development investment, prioritising real-world usability and efficiency. The lithium-ion phosphate battery provides a range of up to 320km on a WLTP combined driving cycle. Uniquely, the Grande Panda features an integrated retractable charging cable (Icon and La Prima trim), which is neatly stowed behind the FIAT logo on the front fascia. With a 100kW DC charging capacity, the car can complete a 10% to 80% charge in approximately 32 minutes.

My Grande Panda Electric ‘Icon’ review car was finished in distinctive Limone Yellow metallic paint. The 44kWh battery sends power to a front-mounted electric motor which produces 113bhp and 120Nm of instant torque. The power on offer is brisk enough for confident urban acceleration and comfortable motorway merging too. The supple suspension absorbs road imperfections with ease, and the general feeling within the car is one of calm serenity. The car features a mild-to-moderate regenerative braking system that recovers energy upon deceleration, and it transitions seamlessly into the mechanical brakes without a grabby or unexpected pedal response.

The hugely-impressive Fiat Grande Panda Electric is priced from just €22,995 (including EV subsidies).

Injuries, whether minor or severe, can disrupt daily life and affect overall well-being, often causing pain and discomfort. Whether it’s a sports injury, a sprained ankle or a more serious injury sustained in an accident, the effects can extend beyond physical symptoms, influencing mental and emotional health.

In the pursuit of holistic wellness, many people combine natural remedies with conventional treatments. Herbal remedies such as turmeric and ginger are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, helping to ease pain and support recovery. Gentle exercise and movement can also help maintain flexibility and prevent further injury.

Foremost in the treatment of injuries are homeopathic medicines. These remedies can be effective in treating both minor and major injuries. They help relieve pain, reduce swelling and can shorten healing time.

Homeopathic remedies have long been used in the treatment of injuries. Many well-known sports people have used homeopathy successfully, including David Beckham, Usain Bolt, Annabel Croft, James Ellington, Linford Christie, Jayne Torvill, Will Greenwood, Boris Becker and Martina Navratilova, as well as the French football and New Zealand rugby union teams.

Spanish golfer Jose Maria Olazábal also used homeopathy alongside treatment for rheumatoid arthritis affecting multiple joints. Here are just a couple of quotes:

“I am a fan of Arnica and recommend all the athletes in my Street Athletics programme have it in their kit bag to help with sprains and strains.” – Linford Christie, 1992 Olympic 100m Champion.

“In our practice of sports medicine, we have to be quickly effective... homeopathy is part of my therapeutic arsenal. I know where it can be used and how.” – Dr Philippe Lageyre, French sports doctor who has worked with various rugby teams.

Top Homeopathic Remedies for Injuries
Arnica Montana - A first-aid essential for injuries caused by falls, blows, impacts or overexertion. It is commonly used to reduce pain, swelling and bruising.

Bellis Perennis – Reaches the areas that Arnica can’t! Indicated for injuries to deep tissues. This also includes injuries after surgery and childbirth.

Rhus Toxicodendron - Indicated for strains and sprains that are worse on first movement but improve with continued motion. It is often used for muscle strains, ligament injuries and joint stiffness after overexertion.

Ruta Graveolens - Particularly beneficial for injuries affecting tendons, ligaments and the periosteum (the covering of bones). It is commonly used for wrist, ankle and knee sprains and supports the healing of connective tissues.

Hypericum - Often called the “Arnica of the nerves” because of its affinity for injuries involving nerve-rich areas such as the fingers, toes and spine.

Symphytum - Traditionally used to support the healing of fractures and other bone injuries by promoting bone repair and relieving pain.

Calendula - Widely used for open wounds where the skin is broken.

Cantharis – Very effective for the treatment of burns and scalds.

It is important to stress that treatment for major injuries should only be done under the supervision of a qualified homeopath. Michael Farrelly is a homeopath in Donabate with over twenty years’ experience in treating people with injuries as well as many other ailments. Michael can be contacted on 0861596119 or at farrellym@hotmail.com.

September is super busy for Mammies! Kids are back to school, LC exam results are out, JC results are coming, college places are being offered and its Debs season!

For Debs (wedding guest/special occasion), we love MyKindOfDress.com Visit their store Unit 1, Fashion City, Ballymount or order online. The dresses are affordable and beautiful; we especially love the lilac pictured above – stunning for debs.

Baloot Accessories has bejewelled bags, embellished hair bands and fancy belts. See https://www.baloot-clothing.com/
For our daughters Debs we’re heading to Lynda at Neon Trees Balbriggan for make-up. She is incredible (she did my look above). Lynda is friendly, affordable and you can visit her at PA Salon or message about house calls via her Insta https://www.instagram.com/neon_trees_makeup/

Advanced Hair Design is affordable, and the girls are so friendly. Pop in for a chat with Trisha about styles for your daughter.
Corsages are back in fashion and Willow & Wisp Flowers have some gorgeous ones to complete the debs look.

Whatever their Leaving Cert results are, they have completed 14 years of school, and that’s worth celebrating! Hopefully they got the results they wanted but if they didn’t, it’s not the end of the world. There are other ways to their dream course; via a PLC for example. It’s so important they understand these results, from one snapshot in time, do not define them. After all her hard work, we will be treating our daughter!

We love to support Irish brands and here are some of our favourites….
Athlone Hampers ‘Cadbury Chocolate and Prosecco’ is our top pick for Leaving Cert gifting (just leave out the bubbles for Junior Cert Gifting!) See https://athlonehampers.ie/ And for the hard-working mammies, we have a fabulous ‘Thank You’ Athlone hamper to give away on mams.ie and our socials Insta @mams.ie & FB @mams.ireland Get entering gals – you deserve it!
Fíor make beautiful Irish inspired jewellery, the Grá and Mother & Child sets are perfect ‘Well done’ exam gifts.
Absolute Jewellery have beautiful jewellery sets for Debs and exam gifting.

Green Angel Skincare have sets for him and her – ideal for gifting. And Cloud10Beuaty do excellent bundles, of beautiful skincare, hair care and make-up – something to suit everyone who deserves a treat!

If you fancy a little family getaway, Pillo Hotel Ashbourne has lots of family offers this Autumn. Swimming pool, sensory room, fab food, spacious rooms. Go on, you deserve it!

By Jack Shanley

Christopher Nolan has always been a director who loves grand scales and mind-bending ideas, but his latest epic, The Odyssey, might be his most ambitious project yet. This three-hour spectacle takes Homer’s ancient Greek poem and transforms it into a gritty, stunningly beautiful story about the heavy cost of war. Shot entirely on massive IMAX 70mm cameras, it demands to be seen on the biggest screen possible.

The movie follows Odysseus, played by Matt Damon, a battle-weary king trying to sail home to his wife Penelope (Anne Hathaway) and son Telemachus (Tom Holland) after the fall of Troy. While the classic mythical obstacles are all there including a terrifying Cyclops and enchanting Sirens Nolan does something different. He focuses deeply on the psychological toll of the journey. Odysseus isn’t a flawless hero here; he is a man haunted by the violence of his past, whose own pride and guilt keep delaying his homecoming.

Matt Damon delivers a career-defining performance. He sheds his usual charming, friendly movie-star persona to play a grizzled, deeply exhausted leader crushed by the weight of his actions. The star-studded supporting cast is equally excellent. Anne Hathaway plays Penelope with a quiet, fierce grace as she defends her home from greedy suitors, while Tom Holland captures the emotional ache of a son growing up without a father. Zendaya also makes a memorable impression as the goddess Athena, acting as Odysseus’s watchful protector.

Visually, the film is an absolute masterpiece. Keeping with his signature style, Nolan relies heavily on practical effects rather than computer graphics (CGI). This choice makes the stormy seas and ancient landscapes feel incredibly real, rough, and dangerous.

The vast, breathless shots captured by cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema are perfectly paired with Ludwig Göransson’s pounding, intense musical score, keeping the audience glued to their seats.

If there is a flaw, it is that the movie’s pacing occasionally slows down during the middle chapters of the sea voyage. However, the emotional payoff and the thrilling final act more than make up for it.

Ultimately, The Odyssey is a powerful, thought-provoking blockbuster. It shows us that surviving a war is only half the battle—the hardest part is truly finding your way back to who you used to be.

In all truth I’d recommend checking out ‘The Odyssey’ and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of Four ½ stars. You can watch it at your local cinema today. Director: Christopher Nolan – Rating: 15A – Genre: Action/Fantasy – Run Time: 2h 53m - Language: English. For more film content please follow @screen_.addicts on Instagram.

By Dave Kavanagh

For many years, I have recommended to clients the importance of setting up an “ICE” file (In Case of Emergency). Preferably in either a metal filing cabinet or any container that is fire-resistant (some have even used a strong biscuit tin but only after the biscuits are gone!) Then, make sure at least one (preferably two) trusted friends or family members are aware of where it is kept in the home. This way, in the unexpected event of either a fatality, a severe illness or even early onset dementia, it removes the confusion of trying to establish details, such as, what bank account are there, what cover (if any) is in place and is there a will made? I’ve often heard of situations where a surviving partner says “oh, he/she always dealt with all of that, I haven’t got a clue”.
So what kind of things should be kept in it? Consider the kind of information that would be needed at such a time. Details of bank accounts, any loans due to be paid, details of any mortgage and associated cover in place that could clear such a loan. Any life cover details (and any contact names and numbers in connection with them). Details of any regular payments that should be cancelled, such as gym membership, magazine subscriptions, etc. The benefit of having cover plans and wills in place is diluted somewhat if nobody knows that they exist or where the details are.

With all of this in mind, something that is well worth researching, is an Enduring Power of Attorney. While this was formerly associated with someone having reduced mental capacity and therefore needing someone to make decisions on their behalf, the Assisted Decision Making (Capacity) Act 2015, brings a more modern approach to having someone assist in certain decisions. Talk to your solicitor for more information about this service.

Dave Kavanagh QFA has been advising people financially for over 25 years. For quotes or information (with no cost or obligation) he can be contacted by emailing info@financialcompanion.ie or use the contact form on www.financialcompanion.ie or @Davekav_advice on Twitter and Instagram. Combined with his previous role of gym/nutrition adviser, he regularly gives talks and workshops at seminars and events for groups, companies and government departments on financial wellbeing, positivity and motivation. As heard on RTE 2FM , LMFM and TV3.

A historical society in Donabate & Portrane was first established in 1948 but became inactive in 1955. It was reactivated in 1972 by Mr Peadar Bates of Donabate and continues to this day. The aim of the society is the collection of information on the peninsula as to the customs, stories and incidents of the ancient, medieval and modern times to complete a written history of the area.

The Donabate/Portrane historical society has regular meetings, times and dates of which will be posted on social media and website, anyone interested is welcome to attend. Talks and presentations are also arranged several times a year, information available as before, and all are welcome.

The society Local History Museum is located in the courtyard of Newbridge House and is open every Saturday & Sunday (+ bank holidays) from 2 to 4pm, entry is free. The museum provides a wonderful window into the past of the peninsula containing artefacts and images of life in rural Donabate and Portrane, and the ‘big’ houses of the area. Well worth a visit! For information please contact: Donald Henderson 087-2610164 Copies of Peadar Bates book available in the museum, or call 087-2397608

The final construction of Swords Castle was the work of many hands and many centuries too.

Having a siting near a powerful, navigable river recommended Swords immediately to the conquering Norman’s in 1170 ad. Rivers provide vital water, allow for rapid travel over the waterways of that day and provided these new continental invaders with immediate access to the open sea at the Malahide estuary. Sea travel, in a territory still covered by thick forest, was the most efficient means of travel the Swords Castle was built not so much for defence or sieges either, but for control of the local area and native population.

Nevertheless, as this 1790 print confirms with fishermen depicted near the Constable’s Tower(1400s). The castle once boasted a surrounding moat, fed directly from the river Ward. Tight lines to all our fishermen!

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Warm weather often brings an increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Heat, excessive sweating, and dehydration can reduce urine output, allowing bacteria more opportunity to multiply in the urinary tract. Drinking enough fluids and maintaining good hygiene are important first steps in reducing the risk.

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, many UTIs are associated with a pattern known as Damp-Heat in the Lower Jiao, (The Lower section of the torso) where excess heat and moisture contribute to symptoms such as burning during urination, urinary urgency, frequent urination, and dark or cloudy urine. A qualified TCM practitioner may recommend an individualised treatment plan that includes acupuncture and customised herbal formulas designed to clear heat, drain dampness, and support the body’s natural healing processes. Herbal treatments should always be prescribed by a trained practitioner, particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking prescription medications.

At home, several natural measures may help support urinary tract health. Staying well hydrated is one of the most effective ways to help flush bacteria from the urinary system. Aim to drink water regularly throughout the day, especially during hot weather or after exercise. Unsweetened cranberry products may help reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs in some people by making it more difficult for certain bacteria to attach to the bladder wall, although they are not a treatment for an active infection.

Cooling foods that are commonly recommended in TCM include cucumber, watermelon, celery, pears, and mung beans, which may help support hydration during the warmer months. Reducing spicy foods, alcohol, excessive sugar, and highly processed foods may also be beneficial, as these are traditionally thought to contribute to internal heat.

Good personal hygiene, urinating after sexual activity, avoiding prolonged periods in wet swimwear, and wearing breathable cotton underwear can further reduce the risk of infection.

If you develop symptoms such as burning when passing urine, frequent urination, pelvic pain, fever, chills, blood in the urine, or pain in the back or side, seek prompt medical attention. UTIs often require antibiotic treatment, and delaying care can allow the infection to spread to the kidneys. Chinese medicine can be a valuable complementary approach but should not replace appropriate medical diagnosis and treatment.

In Wellness
Susan

By Declan Glynn

The all-new Kia PV5 Passenger represents the Korean manufacturer’s bold entry into the modular electric vehicle space, and it promises van-like practicality with a car-like driving experience. The PV5 is the first vehicle in Kia’s Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) family – a flexible electric architecture deliberately engineered to support multiple body styles and passenger configurations.

Outstanding Practicality.
The PV5 is based on Kia’s Electric-Global Modular Platform for Service (E-GMP.S), and is manufactured at the brand’s cutting-edge EVO production facility in South Korea. Long Wheelbase, Standard Roof (L2/H1) Passenger and Cargo versions are available now, with additional variants to follow for the 262 registration period, including an impressively-spacious 7-seat MPV. The PV5 Passenger represents a genuinely different type of practicality over typical MPV rivals, and the space on offer within the cabin eclipses most large SUVs and estate cars outright. With all five seats in use, there is a class-leading 1,330-litres of cargo space available, and with the rear seats folded flat, the figure increases to a massive 2,300-litres.

Modern Appeal.
The PV5 Passenger’s refined profile accentuates its contemporary look and delivers excellent visibility thanks to the large window area, made possible by a low beltline. Robust black wheel arch cladding and rocker panels mirror Kia’s SUV line-up, while a bold lighting signature and sleek black accents elevate its modern appeal..

Vehicle on Review.
My review vehicle was a PV5 Passenger K4, which looked very elegant in its Aurora Black Pearl metallic paint and contrasting two-tone alloy wheels. Designed with practicality and functionality in mind, the ergonomic cabin features a multitude of recycled plastics and other eco-friendly alternatives, and overall fit and finish is excellent. In typical Kia fashion, there is a good blend of physical buttons and switches on the dashboard and steering wheel, so it is always easy to access important functions when on the move. The standard 120kW electric motor is powered by a 71.2kWh lithium-ion polymer battery, and it produces 163PS (165bhp) and 250Nm of instant torque, resulting in a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 12.4-seconds. The PV5’s driving character has to be one of its unexpected qualities, as it delivers a driving experience that defies its upright stance and van-like dimensions. Despite its tall proportions, body roll is well controlled, and the steering is light and agile for confident urban driving, yet suitably direct for spirited motorway driving too. The cabin is surprisingly refined, with very little in the way of wind or road noise getting through to the cabin, and this makes the PV5 a genuinely relaxing motorway companion for longer family journeys. Acceleration is brisk from the get-go, and settled at motorway speeds, and the low centre of gravity from the flat battery pack results in consistent power delivery. With a best-in-class electric range of up to 416km, and ultra-fast charging capabilities providing a 10-80% charge in as little as 30 minutes, the PV5 ensures efficiency without compromise.

Price.
Priced from just €42,550 (ex-delivery), the PV5 Passenger represents outstanding value for money.